Balla’s stint in prison (not to make light of the situation) served as a time-capsule to perfectly preserve him as a rapper from a different era.

Narco Life is the exact project you would hope for from Sky Balla post-incarceration.

He’s a veteran boxer coming off an extended lay-off. One who shook off all signs of ring-rust to come back with the composure, educated jab, and Ring IQ of a master boxer.

Surprisingly potent verse from Berner, here. I suppose one shouldn’t be surprised as Berner just released two great albums within the span of 12 months in Packs and Sleepwalkin’. The latter of which not only his best release to date, but easily one of my favorite albums this year.

Street-violence and gang-enhanced jail sentences somewhat stifled Oak Park and South Sacramento’s rap scenes (and the lives of those involved) but lo and behold North Sacramento’s new class has been bubbling.